First Nations Development Institute

Our Mission Our mission is to uplift and sustain the lifeways and economies of Native communities through advocacy, financial support, and knowledge sharing. We envision a world in which Tribal Sovereignty is upheld, and Native ingenuity and knowledge are honored and respected. First Nations is the most highly-rated American Indian nonprofit in the nation. Indeed, every year since 2013, First Nations has received the top 4-Star rating from Charity Navigator. Learn more First Nations’ ratings and financial information. Founded in 1980, First Nations began its national grantmaking program in 1993. Through year-end 2023, we have successfully managed 3,385 grants totaling $79.9 million to Native American projects and organizations in 45 states, the District of Columbia, and U.S. Territory American Samoa.